Bodega Bay Area Ride Recommendations

[Michael Moore, Jr.]

Hello Folks,

I’ll be in Bodega Bay, California from April 17–20 and am thinking about bringing a bike. I’d appreciate any route recommendations. It is my first time visiting.

I can bring the Bleriot for a more road-orientated ride or the Kona for something more gravel-oriented. Ideally, I’m looking for a 30–60 mile loop—bonus points if there’s a great coffee stop along the way.

Thanks in advance!

Below is a photo from yesterday's ride before the storm came in (we really need the rain!).

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Michael Moore, Jr.
Arcata, CA

[Ben Miller]

Michael,

From Bodega Bay, you could do a nice counterclockwise loop of about 60 kms. Bodega-Occidental-El Rio-Jenner-Bodega. I recommend the CCW as there is a steep descent in the middle, and if you do it CW it becomes a steep climb. Still doable though. And if you do want steep, Coleman Valley Rd is an interesting diversion. CVR is super steep climb up from the coast, but also a very little traffic with amazing views on clear days. 

The are multiple coffee stops along the way in the main towns. My favorite is Cafe Aquatica near Jenner. It would be close to the end of the CCW I described, so you might want coffee sooner. Wild Flower Bakery is towards the start, in Freestone. It's very popular for their bread, but can't speak to the coffee. 

The loop could be extended by going more North from El Rio and adding in Cazadero, but that's gonna start to be a very big ride indeed. But also a very beautiful one with big climbs and descents. 

Also highly recommend the Rocker Oysterfella's restaurant in Valley Ford for any meal (brunch/lunch/dinner). Looks like they have a second location in Bodega Bay now, but I've only been to the VF location. 

Ben 

[Patch T]

Ben has provided excellent recommendations...

If you were itching for some unpaved road to add to that general route he suggests, consider Willow Creek Fire Road, connecting Occidental to Bridgehaven (just south of Jenner), cutting out Monte Rio. Something like 10-12 miles, most of it is closed to cars, and half or so is unpaved, but not technical. 

There's good restaurants/cafes, grocery and a tea shop in Occidental.

Patch

[Michael Moore, Jr.]

Thank you Ben and Patch for the recommendations. I look forward to riding when I get down there!

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[Ben Miller]

Michael, it some of the best riding anywhere, sure you'll enjoy it!

Patch, thanks for letting me know about Willow Creek FR, I'll have to check that out sometime!